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Heirs to the Burning Thrones Rogue's Gallery
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<blockquote data-quote="Goddess FallenAngel" data-source="post: 1653784" data-attributes="member: 11434"><p>[SBLOCK]<strong>Shalah, Flower of the Hidden Oasis and Ala’Kamal’s Fallen Star</strong></p><p><strong>Female Human Genie-Kin3/Rogue 4/BoEM Bard 9/Seductress 4</strong></p><p><strong>Character level:</strong> 10</p><p><strong>Alignment:</strong> Chaotic Good</p><p><strong>Chosen Spirits:</strong> Spirits of Beauty, Pleasure, and Entertainment</p><p><strong>City:</strong> Formerly Binum; more recently Sagheer</p><p><strong>Height:</strong> 5' 7''</p><p><strong>Weight:</strong> 120 lbs</p><p><strong>Hair:</strong> Red-tinged gold</p><p><strong>Eyes:</strong> Molten Gold</p><p><strong>Age:</strong> 129</p><p></p><p><strong>Str:</strong> 10 (+0) [0 points, +2 racial] </p><p><strong>Dex:</strong> 20 (+5) [16 points, +2 racial]</p><p><strong>Con:</strong> 12 (+1) [4 points] </p><p><strong>Int:</strong> 16 (+3) [6 points, +2 racial] </p><p><strong>Wis:</strong> 14 (+2) [4 points, +2 racial] </p><p><strong>Cha:</strong> 24 (+7) [16 points, +2 level +4 necklace] </p><p></p><p><strong><u>Class and Racial Abilities</u></strong></p><p><strong>Genie-Kin abilities</strong> - Natural AC +1. Spell-like abilities - 1/day <em>enlarge person, invisibility, reduce person, speak with animals</em> as a first level caster. Save is 10 + spell level + Cha mod. <em>Planar Jaunt (Sp):</em> 1/day a genie-kin can travel to any elemental plane, the Astral plane, or the Material Plane as though using <em>planeshift</em> cast by a 13th level caster. The genie-kin and any willing creatures brought along appear at a random location on the destination plane. The genie-kin and the creatures brought on the <em>planar jaunt</em> remain on the other plane (or any location on any plane they go from there) for 1 minute per racial HD of the genie-kin (minimum 1 minute). When this duration expires, the genie-kin and all creatures on the<em> planar jaunt</em> return to their original positions on their origin plane. An effect that suppresses or dispels <em>planar jaunt</em> sends the genie-kin back to the exact places from where they left. If the space where a creature on the <em>planar jaunt</em> is occupied upon its return, it appears in the nearest unoccupied space. Fire resistance 5. +2 Str, +2 Dex, +2 Int, +2 Wis. Improved Initiative as a bonus feat.</p><p></p><p><strong>Rogue abilities</strong>- Sneak attack +2d6, Trapfinding, Evasion, Trap sense +1, Uncanny dodge</p><p></p><p><strong>BoEM2 Bard abilities</strong> – Spellsongs (notes, chords), Bardic knowledge [+2 synergy from Knowledge (history)], Weave notes, Evasion</p><p></p><p><strong>Seductress abilities</strong> – Spellcasting, Seduce, Alluring, Seducer’s Kiss I,II, Exotic Defense, Seductive Art, Alchemy of Love </p><p></p><p><strong>Hit Dice:</strong> (3d8) + 10d6 +10</p><p><strong>HP:</strong> 75 [8+(2*6)+(10*4.5)+10]</p><p><strong>AC:</strong> 28 (+7 Dex, +1 natural, +3 armor [from bracers], +7 circumstance [exotic defense])</p><p><strong>Init:</strong> +11 (+7 Dex, +4 Improved Initiative)</p><p><strong>Speed:</strong> 30 ft </p><p></p><p><strong><u>Saves</u></strong></p><p>Fortitude +6 [+3 1/3 base, +1 Con, +2 from ring]</p><p>Reflex +16 [+7 base, +7 Dex, +2 from ring]</p><p>Will +8 [+4 5/6 base, +2 Wis, +2 from ring]</p><p></p><p><strong>BAB:</strong> +7/+2 (7 ½)</p><p><strong>Melee Atk:</strong> +8/+3 (1d3+1/19-20/x2/S, Twice-Cursed [<em>+1 native outsider-detecting, roguefriend, ribbon-dagger</em>])</p><p> </p><p><strong><u>Skills</u></strong></p><p>Appraise +3/+5 [0 ranks, +3 Int, +2 synergy from Craft for alchemical items]</p><p>Balance +12 [5 ranks, +5 Dex, +2 synergy from Tumble]</p><p>Bluff +17 [8 ranks, +7 Cha, +2 Persuasive]</p><p>Concentration +6 [5 ranks, +1 Con]</p><p>Craft (alchemy) +13 [10 ranks, +3 Int]</p><p>Diplomacy +28 [10 ranks, +7 Cha +2 Trustworthy, +2 Alluring, +2 synergy from Bluff, +2 synergy from Knowledge (nobility and royalty), +2 synergy from Sense Motive, +1 competence from Seductive Art]</p><p>Disguise +10/+12 [3 ranks, +7 Cha, +2 synergy from Bluff to act IC]</p><p>Escape Artist +8 [3 ranks, +5 Dex]</p><p>Gather Information +10 [3 ranks, +5 Dex +2 Trustworthy]</p><p>Hide +10 [5 ranks, +5 Dex]</p><p>Intimidate +11 [0 ranks, +7 Cha, +2 Persuasive, +2 synergy from Bluff]</p><p>Jump +2 [0 ranks, +0 Str, +2 synergy from Tumble]</p><p>Knowledge (arcana) +8 [5 ranks, +3 Int]</p><p>Knowledge (history) +8 [5 ranks, +3 Int]</p><p>Knowledge (nobility and royalty) +8 [5 ranks, +3 Int]</p><p>Listen +10 [8 ranks, +2 Wis]</p><p>Move Silently +10 [5 ranks, +5 Dex]</p><p>Perform (dance) +17 [8 ranks, +7 Cha, +2 Entertainer]</p><p>Perform (percussion instruments) +15/+17 [8 ranks, +7 Cha, +2 circumstance from MW Zills]</p><p>Perform (sing) +22 [13 ranks, +7 Cha, +2 Entertainer]</p><p>Perform (string instruments) +15/+19 [8 ranks, +7 Cha, +4 circumstance from Gentle Melody]</p><p>Sense Motive +8 [5 ranks, +2 Wis, +1 competence from Seductive Art]</p><p>Sleight of Hand +7 [0 ranks, +5 Dex, +2 synergy from Bluff]</p><p>Spot +10 [8 ranks, +2 Wis]</p><p>Tumble +14 [9 ranks, +5 Dex]</p><p>Spellcraft +10 [5 ranks, +3 Int, +2 synergy from Knowledge (arcana)]</p><p></p><p><strong>Feats:</strong></p><p>Improved Initiative (genie-kin bonus)</p><p>Persuasive (human bonus)</p><p>Trustworthy (1st level)</p><p>Entertainer [Custom] <em>+2 dance, sing checks</em> (3rd level)</p><p>Alluring (Seductress 1st)</p><p>Spell Focus (enchantment) (6th level)</p><p>Vivify Song (Maestoso) [BoEM2] (9th level)</p><p></p><p><strong>Languages:</strong> Keldev (Common), Nessarine, Atiik, Ignan.</p><p></p><p><strong>Spells Per Day:</strong> 1st – 3. 2nd – 3.</p><p>Save DC +2 of mind-affecting, language-dependant spells</p><p>Save DC +1 of enchantment spells</p><p><strong>Spells Known</strong> </p><p>1st - <em>Charm Person, Ray of Enfeeblement, Tasha’s Hideous Laughter.</em></p><p>2nd - <em>Heroism.</em></p><p></p><p><strong>Spellsongs Per Day:</strong> Notes – 16. Chords – 8.</p><p>Save DC +2 of mind-affecting, language-dependant spells</p><p>Save DC +1 of enchantment spells</p><p><strong>Spellsongs Known</strong> </p><p>Notes - <em>Burst of Speed, Countersong, Deflect Blow, Influence, Momentary Charm, Sonic Dart.</em></p><p>Chords - <em>Fascinate, Recall Tale, Suggestive Chord.</em></p><p></p><p><strong><u>Equipment</u></strong></p><p></p><p><strong>Twice-Cursed</strong> – <em>+1 native-outsider detecting, roguefriend ribbon dagger</em></p><p><strong>Bracelets of Sand’s Kiss </strong> (as <em>bracers of armor +3</em>, 9,000gp)</p><p><strong>Ring of Fate</strong> (as <em>cloak of resistance +2</em>, 4,000gp)</p><p><strong>Necklace of the Jewel</strong> (as <em>cloak of Charisma +4</em>, 16,000)</p><p><strong>Veil of the Masquerade</strong> (as <em>hat of disguise</em>, 1,800)</p><p><strong>Slippers of Fleetness</strong> (as <em>boots of speed</em>, 12,000)</p><p><strong>Gentle Melody</strong> (as <em>Mac-Fuirmidh Cithern</em>, Instruments of the Bards, MoF – but with additional +2 to perform instead of +2 to bardic music checks. <em>cure light wounds, mage armor, sleep</em>, 1/day. 2,900)</p><p><strong>Draught of Bastet’s Blessing</strong> (qty 2, as <em>potion of cat’s grace</em>, 600 gp)</p><p><strong>Lover’s Boon</strong> (4 doses of contraceptive, 10 gp)</p><p><strong>Bewitching Powder</strong> (-2 penalty to Will saves, 1 hour, 50 gp)</p><p><strong>Perfume of Allure</strong> (+2 alchemical bonus to Cha, 1d3 hours, 50 gp)</p><p><strong>Steamcloud</strong> (Fine and sturdy camel; solid white in color, +2 Con, 125 gp)</p><p><strong>Zills, masterwork</strong> (100 gp)</p><p><strong>Ink</strong> (1 vial, 8 gp)</p><p><strong>Inkpen</strong> (1 sp)</p><p><strong>Mirror</strong> (small steel, 10 gp)</p><p><strong>Parchment</strong> (10 sheets, 2 gp)</p><p><strong>Soap</strong> (2 lbs, 1 gp)</p><p><strong>Perfume</strong> (varying scents, 5 gp)</p><p><strong>Entertainer’s Outfits</strong> (3 dancing outfits, 1 comprised mostly of veils, 1 strung with small bells, 9 gp)</p><p><strong>Courtier’s Outfits</strong> (8 outfits of varying colors and styles, 240 gp)</p><p><strong>Noble’s Outfits</strong> (3 of differing colors and styles, 225 gp)</p><p><strong>Jewelry</strong> (of differing styles, types, and gems, 2,780 gp total)</p><p><strong>Jewelry Box</strong> (locked with Good lock and finely carved, 120 gp)</p><p></p><p></p><p><strong>Money</strong></p><p>GP: 64</p><p>SP: 9</p><p></p><p><em>Note</em> – Her jewelry can be used as additional currency, as needed.</p><p></p><p><strong>Twice-Cursed, intelligent ribbon dagger, 10th level:</strong> hardness 5, hp 10; Communication: Empathy; Perception: Sight, Darkvision, and Hearing; AL CN; SV Fort +9, Ref +7, Will +7; Str 12, Dex 8, Con -, Int 7, Wis 8, Cha 16.</p><p><em>Skills and Feats:</em> Sense Motive +12, Perform (dance) +7; Float, Attack, Sight, Darkvision, Increase Speed x2.</p><p><em>Spell-Like Abilities:</em> 1/day – <em>detect poison, mage hand, mage armor, color spray, true strike, blur, cat’s grace, bull’s strength, remove curse, break enchantment.</em> 2/day - <em>detect magic, cure moderate wounds.</em></p><p></p><p>Twice-Cursed is a <em>+1 native-outsider detecting (60’), roguefriend (+1d6 SA) ribbon dagger</em>. A year ago a pair of harem girls attempted to escape their harem. One of the girls was slain before they could scale the wall, and her blood wet the ribbon dagger her friend was carrying. Part of her spirit entered it, and as the weapon had unknowingly been partially enchanted, the weapon became somewhat intelligent.</p><p>Twice-Cursed is female, and has a strong independent streak. She doesn’t have all the memories that her human self once possessed, but she utterly loathes being confined, and will aid her bearer in any way she can to free them. With the ability to attack under her own power, she is willing to throw herself into battle on behalf of her owner. </p><p>She can fly at a speed of 30 ft., and attacks at +9/+4, for 1d3+2 damage, x2 crit, has 5 ft. reach, and if thrown has a range of 20 ft. She can see, hear, and has darkvision 60 ft. She can only communicate to her owner through surges of emotion. If she’s sensing someone’s motive for her owner, she will send a surge of the emotion she is sensing to her owner. Her spell like abilities she can cast on herself or her owner as requested. </p><p></p><p><strong>Appearance:</strong> </p><p>Shalah is a beautiful, lithe young woman with an innate grace that speaks of many years of dancing; indeed, every step seems a dance in itself. She dresses extravagantly in the colors of gold and red, both of which complement her natural coloring. Her hair is a deep gold tinged with red highlights that shift when she moves; her skin is a golden bronze, and her eyes reflect the depths of molten gold themselves. Her exotic, slanted eyes are fringed with dark lashes, and her perfect, full-lipped smile beneath her light veil has been known to stress even the most stern of men’s self-control. Once called the Radiant Star of Sultan’s Ala’Kamal’s harem, her beauty supports such a claim, as she seems to nearly glow with an internal fire.</p><p></p><p><strong>Personality:</strong> </p><p>Shalah’s moods and favorites tend to flow like the river, in keeping with her name; she can be frivolous and forgetful, and she rarely settles down to one opinion for long. Her only true loves are music, dance, and song. However, she is a deeply caring woman, and dislikes to hurt anyone’s feelings, instead wishing to spread only pleasure and happiness wherever she treads. She neither looks nor acts her true age, and most take her to be far younger than her age.</p><p></p><p><strong>Background:</strong></p><p>A blowing sandstorm obscured the trail, and Caravan Master Emir was hopelessly lost. Suddenly, an oasis and sudden calm, the eye of the storm, rose up out of the desert in front of his caravan. Emir directed his outriders and wagons to the small oasis, blessing his guardian spirits for this unknown oasis. However, the oasis wasn’t uninhabited, nor was the caravan unexpected. </p><p></p><p>An old woman awaited Emir there, along with a young, graceful, and beautiful maiden. The crone immediately demanded to speak with him, declaring that she could not wait any longer. Directing his men to make camp at the oasis until the storm stopped, he wearily acceded to her demands. However, he was soon to wish that he had passed the oasis by.</p><p></p><p> The old woman claimed that she had directed his caravan here, and caused the sandstorm to facilitate their meeting. She presented the maiden at her side, naming her Shalah, and ordered Emir to deliver her with all speed to the city of Binum, which was the caravan’s destination. “There you will find an individual by the name of Abra – a free woman, an experienced courtesan. You will deliver Shalah, untouched and unharmed, to this woman.” She further explained that she had raised the maiden by herself at the oasis, but she was old and the desert would soon surely claim her, and Shalah should not be left alone.</p><p></p><p>Emir was stunned. The young woman, Shalah, was beautiful and desirous, and the crone’s idea of simply handing her over to a strange man and trusting him to accomplish these deeds with Shalah’s honor intact was insane! The crone seemed to hear his unspoken thoughts, however, for she once again spoke. “Shalah will not be touched by mortal man until 40 years have passed – do not mistake her for being defenseless. Should she be defiled while in your company, you and all your men will suffer most horrendously for eternity.” Afraid, Emir declared he was departing, and his men, unnerved by the unnatural serenity about the oasis that appeared on no map while the sandstorm raged outside, agreed.</p><p></p><p>“You will take Shalah with you.” The crone’s words were not a question, and her eyes seemed to bore into Emir’s soul. Even more frightened, he reluctantly agreed. Shalah, who had until this point said not a word, thanked him, then the crone, calling her ‘Aunt’. She picked up the meager bad of possessions that lie at her feet, and followed Emir to his caravan. </p><p></p><p>The men were upset and unhappy about Shalah’s joining the caravan, but Emir placed her in his personal wagon and watched over her like a precious daughter. He made no mention to his men about the old woman’s words, only that Shalah was to be treated with all respect due a lady of nobility.</p><p></p><p>Shortly after the caravan moved out of the oasis into the teeth of the storm, the winds died. When Emir looked back, the oasis was nowhere to be seen. He shuddered and continued on his way. Although they were indeed close to Binum, it was still several days travel, and before long the men started eying Shalah sideways and muttering about ‘genie-kin’ and ‘curses’. Emir took all care to stifle such words, and always cut them off where Shalah could hear; he was afraid that she might take it into her head to curse them for their words.</p><p></p><p>It was with much relief that the city of Binum rose into view. Immediately upon the caravan making rest, Emir took Shalah, bundled as appropriate for a woman, in search of this Abra.</p><p></p><p>As luck, or possibly Fate, would have it, Abra was passing through the marketplace with her women. Upon hearing that a caravan master was asking for her, she sent one of her boys to find him. He returned shortly, trailing Emir and Shalah and introduced Emir, bowing.</p><p></p><p>Abra studied Emir and the strange young woman at his side as she waited for him to speak. He explained the circumstances surrounding the last two weeks, and Abra gazed with surprise at Shalah. Then, thanking Emir (who was happy to be free of such a burden), she brought Shalah to her side and to her house. She spoke long with Shalah, learning her history of being brought up in the lonely oasis by the old woman she only knew as “Aunt”. Abra declared Shalah to be the Flower of the Hidden Oasis and offered to train her.</p><p></p><p>Thus was Shalah trained in the graces and knowledge of the court and nobility. She was given all the best tutors, and the most attention to help her succeed. She was trained as a high courtesan, one that Abra predicted would serve even in the court of the Sultan. During this time, although trained in the arts of pleasure, she remained a maiden as predicted.</p><p></p><p>Shalah learned quickly, but Abra kept Shalah by her side, her trusted companion and confidant. Shalah, with her graceful and kind ways, had grown precious to Abra – and as the years passed and Shalah did not show any signs of aging, Abra realized that she was also not of human blood. Knowledge of Emir’s story along with certain of Shalah’s abilities lead Abra to believe that Shalah was of the accursed Genie blood, and fear of what would happen if others discovered this caused Abra to keep Shalah even closer.</p><p></p><p>40 years past, as prophesied. Abra was an old woman, and Shalah just as young and beautiful as she had been when she first came to Abra, albeit much more knowledgeable and skilled. Abra realized that she could not much longer protect Shalah from the world; although a capable woman, Shalah could not possibly protect herself from all the evilness and hate that the world had to offer, especially should the truth of her heritage become public knowledge. But she could not stand to send Shalah away.</p><p></p><p>Abra reached a compromise. She was a powerful woman, having had to be with no husband, father, or brother to care for her, and wanting none. She was also one of the premier educator and tutors of concubines and courtesans, and in the City of Beauty, a very well known personage. She spoke with Shalah for some time, getting her opinion and giving her own suggestions. They came upon an agreement.</p><p></p><p>So it was that she sent a message to the court of Sultan Ala’Kamal. She declared that she had a individual suitable for his harem, and no other’s – a young lady who had the benefit of many long years of Abra’s training and culture, and who had been given secrets that no other student of Abra had (all of which was true).</p><p></p><p>The claim met the ears of the Sultan, who upon hearing this desired greatly to see this individual. A summons to the court was sent, and Abra rejoiced. Dressing in her best, she commanded Shalah to make herself as beautiful as possible, and that she did. Taking the <em><a href="http://www.lulusabongi.com/english/Instruments/Kanoun.htm" target="_blank">kanoun</a></em> that was her preferred instrument, as well as a set of <a href="http://www.lulusabongi.com/english/Instruments/Zills.htm" target="_blank"><em>zills</em></a>, they set out for the palace.</p><p></p><p>The interview with the Sultan went beautifully, with Shalah first playing the <em>kanoun</em> and singing beautifully, then using the <em>zills</em> in an exotic dance. The Sultan was mesmerized, and claimed Shalah for his harem, gifting Abra with gold, jewels, and prestige beyond measure for the rest of her days.</p><p></p><p>Shalah was the favorite of the Sultan for a time, and called his Radiant Star - until Nadeeda arrived at the harem. Her intelligence, wisdom, and legendary beauty captured the Sultan’s attention, and Shalah lost her place as favorite. </p><p></p><p>This did not upset Shalah though, as she believed in pleasure and the joy of a new relationship above all else, and welcomed the enjoyment of the Sultan in his new prize. She was still favored as an entertainer, and was often summoned to play or dance for the Sultan or his company. She was often requested by honored guests to attend them at night, but the Sultan granted her only to his most honored guests, something that the pleasure-loving Shalah did not regret.</p><p></p><p>Shalah thrived in the harem environment for nearly twenty years. She ignored the backbiting and idle gossip of the harem for the most part, although she kept her ears open for truly important news. Indeed, there was occasionally gossip about her never-changing beauty; but the Sultan’s forbiddance to speak of such things ended it quickly. She loved entertaining, both publicly and privately, and those who spoke long with her discovered that she was bright and kind. She hungered for stories of all types, and would often approach new arrivals to the harem for comfort and as a confidant. There were many in the harem that considered her a good friend, and all was good with the world.</p><p></p><p>Thus it was she was one of the first to meet and become friends with Samira. The young woman’s beauty was stunning, and she instantly fascinated Shalah. She became fast friends with Samira, who was the most dazzling creature in the harem. Indeed, it wasn’t long before Sultan Ala’Kamal himself declared Samira to be his jewel, and made her his favorite.</p><p></p><p>Fascination eased into infatuation, and Shalah spent almost all her time with the young Samira, who was equally smitted with Shalah. The two became lovers, and close friends – a bond that held even through Samira’s mysterious abduction and return.</p><p></p><p>However, their happy time together was not to be long. Takiyah, a good friend of Shalah’s, and by extension Samira’s, asked for a boon. Takiyah was also a relative newcomer to the harem, and never took well to the life in the gilded cage. She wilted, becoming sick often. She begged Shalah to help her escape, to which Shalah agreed readily. Shalah, in turn, asked Samira to help – for the newest harem-girl was also swiftly gathering the reins of power in the harem. Samira agreed, and they devised a plan.</p><p></p><p>Shalah was to accompany Takiyah across the grounds and to the wall, and there help her escape – then return to the harem. The guards were convinced or bribed to be elsewhere, and told at what time to ring the alarm.</p><p></p><p>Unfortunately, Nadeeda, the jealous displaced harem-leader, overheard part of the plan. Thinking that it was Shalah who was to escape, she sent thugs to kill her and repay Samira in misery for Nadeeda’s loss of prestige.</p><p></p><p>The appointed day and time came. The two girls went about the plan, while Samira was entertaining the Sultan. However, as they came to the wall, Nadeeda’s thugs leapt out. Confused by two girls when there should have only been one, they attacked. Shalah, with her athletic nature and years of experience dancing in the harem, leapt out of the way of danger – but Takiyah was not so lucky. She had enough time to bring out a ribbon dagger that she had been making, and use it to attack – but the thug’s falchion ran her through. Shalah screamed Takiyah’s name, and grasped her fallen friend’s ribbon dagger to attack. However, the thugs were unimpressed with the small weapon, and continued closing in. Realizing that they had blocked her way back to the palace, and would certainly kill her, Shalah turned and ran towards the city, tears streaming freely down her face and voicing silent apologies to Takiyah for failing to save her and Samira for leaving her.</p><p></p><p>Once out into the nighttime city, Shalah realized that she couldn’t run forever. She was drawing attention even on the nearly abandoned streets. She slipped around a corner and used her small skills at being non-obtrusive to hide from those following her. Her mind raced. She couldn’t return to the palace – if she managed to return unharmed by those who had attacked her (for she had no idea who had set them upon she and Takiyah), she would be punished for escaping – and she shuddered to think what kind of punishment might occur. The only choice left, then, was to continue with Takiyah’s plan – meet her contact and leave. She gathered a modest cloak from someone’s backdoor to cover her harem-attire, and slipping it on, she quietly walked to where Takiyah had said she was to meet her patron.</p><p></p><p>She met with the merchant-prince Dharr, and quietly explained her situation, showing him Takiyah’s bloodied ribbon-dagger and choking back tears. Dharr took pity upon the young-appearing woman, and Shalah convinced him to take her in Takiyah’s place. That very night, as planned, Dharr’s caravan left for the nearby city of Sagheer.</p><p></p><p>A year has passed since Shalah came to be with Dharr, having secured him as a patron. He considers her music delightful, and she has often played for him at his frequent dinner parties. He considers her more of a friend than a possession, and allows her to do as she pleases… within reason. Dharr had taught the heretofore-sheltered Shalah quite a bit about the world outside the harem, and Shalah, as always, has learned quickly. </p><p></p><p>Shalah was also surprised to learn that Takiyah’s ribbon-dagger, which she had carried faithfully since Takiyah’s death, had been imbued with a portion of Takiyah’s soul. One day while walking in the market alone, she was cornered by several street thugs who found her beauty and apparent wealth far too much to let walk by. Cornered and unable to run as they closed in, Shalah was about to call for help and cast a spell, when to her surprise, the ribbon-dagger that she held flew out of her hand and attacked the leader, scoring a deep blow across his eyes. Screaming and holding his hands over his face, he stumbled backward and out of the alley, his friends chased out the same way by the dagger. Once they left, it flew back to her and alighted gentle as a bird in Shalah’s hand. Ever since that day, she has been able to sense emotions and feelings from the dagger. She calls the dagger Twice-Cursed, a homage to Takiyah’s life – caged in a harem, then murdered as she attempted to escape the gilded cage.</p><p></p><p>Since her escape, Shalah had a few letters smuggled back to Samira, always to let her know that Shalah was doing well; but it is very dangerous to do so, and after a messenger was captured and the (fortunately, coded) letter was read, Shalah has not sent any more save one to answer the increasingly frantic letters from Samira.</p><p></p><p>Shalah has also found her infatuation for Samira to be just that – infatuation, although at the time Shalah was certain it was love. She is still fond of Samira, and considers her a good friend. She has taken the name Ala’Kamal’s Fallen Star to reference the old name of Radiant Star he had labeled her with; although in ordinary circumstances, she simply uses FallenStar.[/SBLOCK]</p></blockquote><p></p>
[QUOTE="Goddess FallenAngel, post: 1653784, member: 11434"] [SBLOCK][b]Shalah, Flower of the Hidden Oasis and Ala’Kamal’s Fallen Star[/b] [b]Female Human Genie-Kin3/Rogue 4/BoEM Bard 9/Seductress 4[/b] [b]Character level:[/b] 10 [b]Alignment:[/b] Chaotic Good [b]Chosen Spirits:[/b] Spirits of Beauty, Pleasure, and Entertainment [b]City:[/b] Formerly Binum; more recently Sagheer [b]Height:[/b] 5' 7'' [b]Weight:[/b] 120 lbs [b]Hair:[/b] Red-tinged gold [b]Eyes:[/b] Molten Gold [b]Age:[/b] 129 [b]Str:[/b] 10 (+0) [0 points, +2 racial] [b]Dex:[/b] 20 (+5) [16 points, +2 racial] [b]Con:[/b] 12 (+1) [4 points] [b]Int:[/b] 16 (+3) [6 points, +2 racial] [b]Wis:[/b] 14 (+2) [4 points, +2 racial] [b]Cha:[/b] 24 (+7) [16 points, +2 level +4 necklace] [b][u]Class and Racial Abilities[/u][/b] [b]Genie-Kin abilities[/b] - Natural AC +1. Spell-like abilities - 1/day [I]enlarge person, invisibility, reduce person, speak with animals[/I] as a first level caster. Save is 10 + spell level + Cha mod. [I]Planar Jaunt (Sp):[/I] 1/day a genie-kin can travel to any elemental plane, the Astral plane, or the Material Plane as though using [I]planeshift[/I] cast by a 13th level caster. The genie-kin and any willing creatures brought along appear at a random location on the destination plane. The genie-kin and the creatures brought on the [I]planar jaunt[/I] remain on the other plane (or any location on any plane they go from there) for 1 minute per racial HD of the genie-kin (minimum 1 minute). When this duration expires, the genie-kin and all creatures on the[I] planar jaunt[/I] return to their original positions on their origin plane. An effect that suppresses or dispels [I]planar jaunt[/I] sends the genie-kin back to the exact places from where they left. If the space where a creature on the [I]planar jaunt[/I] is occupied upon its return, it appears in the nearest unoccupied space. Fire resistance 5. +2 Str, +2 Dex, +2 Int, +2 Wis. Improved Initiative as a bonus feat. [b]Rogue abilities[/b]- Sneak attack +2d6, Trapfinding, Evasion, Trap sense +1, Uncanny dodge [b]BoEM2 Bard abilities[/b] – Spellsongs (notes, chords), Bardic knowledge [+2 synergy from Knowledge (history)], Weave notes, Evasion [b]Seductress abilities[/b] – Spellcasting, Seduce, Alluring, Seducer’s Kiss I,II, Exotic Defense, Seductive Art, Alchemy of Love [b]Hit Dice:[/b] (3d8) + 10d6 +10 [b]HP:[/b] 75 [8+(2*6)+(10*4.5)+10] [b]AC:[/b] 28 (+7 Dex, +1 natural, +3 armor [from bracers], +7 circumstance [exotic defense]) [b]Init:[/b] +11 (+7 Dex, +4 Improved Initiative) [b]Speed:[/b] 30 ft [b][u]Saves[/u][/b] Fortitude +6 [+3 1/3 base, +1 Con, +2 from ring] Reflex +16 [+7 base, +7 Dex, +2 from ring] Will +8 [+4 5/6 base, +2 Wis, +2 from ring] [b]BAB:[/b] +7/+2 (7 ½) [b]Melee Atk:[/b] +8/+3 (1d3+1/19-20/x2/S, Twice-Cursed [[I]+1 native outsider-detecting, roguefriend, ribbon-dagger[/I]]) [b][u]Skills[/u][/b] Appraise +3/+5 [0 ranks, +3 Int, +2 synergy from Craft for alchemical items] Balance +12 [5 ranks, +5 Dex, +2 synergy from Tumble] Bluff +17 [8 ranks, +7 Cha, +2 Persuasive] Concentration +6 [5 ranks, +1 Con] Craft (alchemy) +13 [10 ranks, +3 Int] Diplomacy +28 [10 ranks, +7 Cha +2 Trustworthy, +2 Alluring, +2 synergy from Bluff, +2 synergy from Knowledge (nobility and royalty), +2 synergy from Sense Motive, +1 competence from Seductive Art] Disguise +10/+12 [3 ranks, +7 Cha, +2 synergy from Bluff to act IC] Escape Artist +8 [3 ranks, +5 Dex] Gather Information +10 [3 ranks, +5 Dex +2 Trustworthy] Hide +10 [5 ranks, +5 Dex] Intimidate +11 [0 ranks, +7 Cha, +2 Persuasive, +2 synergy from Bluff] Jump +2 [0 ranks, +0 Str, +2 synergy from Tumble] Knowledge (arcana) +8 [5 ranks, +3 Int] Knowledge (history) +8 [5 ranks, +3 Int] Knowledge (nobility and royalty) +8 [5 ranks, +3 Int] Listen +10 [8 ranks, +2 Wis] Move Silently +10 [5 ranks, +5 Dex] Perform (dance) +17 [8 ranks, +7 Cha, +2 Entertainer] Perform (percussion instruments) +15/+17 [8 ranks, +7 Cha, +2 circumstance from MW Zills] Perform (sing) +22 [13 ranks, +7 Cha, +2 Entertainer] Perform (string instruments) +15/+19 [8 ranks, +7 Cha, +4 circumstance from Gentle Melody] Sense Motive +8 [5 ranks, +2 Wis, +1 competence from Seductive Art] Sleight of Hand +7 [0 ranks, +5 Dex, +2 synergy from Bluff] Spot +10 [8 ranks, +2 Wis] Tumble +14 [9 ranks, +5 Dex] Spellcraft +10 [5 ranks, +3 Int, +2 synergy from Knowledge (arcana)] [b]Feats:[/b] Improved Initiative (genie-kin bonus) Persuasive (human bonus) Trustworthy (1st level) Entertainer [Custom] [i]+2 dance, sing checks[/i] (3rd level) Alluring (Seductress 1st) Spell Focus (enchantment) (6th level) Vivify Song (Maestoso) [BoEM2] (9th level) [b]Languages:[/b] Keldev (Common), Nessarine, Atiik, Ignan. [b]Spells Per Day:[/b] 1st – 3. 2nd – 3. Save DC +2 of mind-affecting, language-dependant spells Save DC +1 of enchantment spells [b]Spells Known[/b] 1st - [i]Charm Person, Ray of Enfeeblement, Tasha’s Hideous Laughter.[/i] 2nd - [I]Heroism.[/I] [b]Spellsongs Per Day:[/b] Notes – 16. Chords – 8. Save DC +2 of mind-affecting, language-dependant spells Save DC +1 of enchantment spells [b]Spellsongs Known[/b] Notes - [I]Burst of Speed, Countersong, Deflect Blow, Influence, Momentary Charm, Sonic Dart.[/I] Chords - [i]Fascinate, Recall Tale, Suggestive Chord.[/i] [b][u]Equipment[/u][/b] [b]Twice-Cursed[/b] – [I]+1 native-outsider detecting, roguefriend ribbon dagger[/I] [B]Bracelets of Sand’s Kiss [/B] (as [i]bracers of armor +3[/i], 9,000gp) [b]Ring of Fate[/b] (as [i]cloak of resistance +2[/i], 4,000gp) [b]Necklace of the Jewel[/b] (as [i]cloak of Charisma +4[/i], 16,000) [b]Veil of the Masquerade[/b] (as [i]hat of disguise[/i], 1,800) [b]Slippers of Fleetness[/b] (as [i]boots of speed[/i], 12,000) [b]Gentle Melody[/b] (as [i]Mac-Fuirmidh Cithern[/i], Instruments of the Bards, MoF – but with additional +2 to perform instead of +2 to bardic music checks. [i]cure light wounds, mage armor, sleep[/i], 1/day. 2,900) [b]Draught of Bastet’s Blessing[/b] (qty 2, as [i]potion of cat’s grace[/i], 600 gp) [b]Lover’s Boon[/b] (4 doses of contraceptive, 10 gp) [b]Bewitching Powder[/b] (-2 penalty to Will saves, 1 hour, 50 gp) [b]Perfume of Allure[/b] (+2 alchemical bonus to Cha, 1d3 hours, 50 gp) [b]Steamcloud[/b] (Fine and sturdy camel; solid white in color, +2 Con, 125 gp) [b]Zills, masterwork[/b] (100 gp) [b]Ink[/b] (1 vial, 8 gp) [b]Inkpen[/b] (1 sp) [b]Mirror[/b] (small steel, 10 gp) [b]Parchment[/b] (10 sheets, 2 gp) [b]Soap[/b] (2 lbs, 1 gp) [b]Perfume[/b] (varying scents, 5 gp) [b]Entertainer’s Outfits[/b] (3 dancing outfits, 1 comprised mostly of veils, 1 strung with small bells, 9 gp) [b]Courtier’s Outfits[/b] (8 outfits of varying colors and styles, 240 gp) [b]Noble’s Outfits[/b] (3 of differing colors and styles, 225 gp) [b]Jewelry[/b] (of differing styles, types, and gems, 2,780 gp total) [b]Jewelry Box[/b] (locked with Good lock and finely carved, 120 gp) [b]Money[/b] GP: 64 SP: 9 [I]Note[/I] – Her jewelry can be used as additional currency, as needed. [b]Twice-Cursed, intelligent ribbon dagger, 10th level:[/b] hardness 5, hp 10; Communication: Empathy; Perception: Sight, Darkvision, and Hearing; AL CN; SV Fort +9, Ref +7, Will +7; Str 12, Dex 8, Con -, Int 7, Wis 8, Cha 16. [i]Skills and Feats:[/i] Sense Motive +12, Perform (dance) +7; Float, Attack, Sight, Darkvision, Increase Speed x2. [i]Spell-Like Abilities:[/i] 1/day – [I]detect poison, mage hand, mage armor, color spray, true strike, blur, cat’s grace, bull’s strength, remove curse, break enchantment.[/I] 2/day - [I]detect magic, cure moderate wounds.[/I] Twice-Cursed is a [I]+1 native-outsider detecting (60’), roguefriend (+1d6 SA) ribbon dagger[/I]. A year ago a pair of harem girls attempted to escape their harem. One of the girls was slain before they could scale the wall, and her blood wet the ribbon dagger her friend was carrying. Part of her spirit entered it, and as the weapon had unknowingly been partially enchanted, the weapon became somewhat intelligent. Twice-Cursed is female, and has a strong independent streak. She doesn’t have all the memories that her human self once possessed, but she utterly loathes being confined, and will aid her bearer in any way she can to free them. With the ability to attack under her own power, she is willing to throw herself into battle on behalf of her owner. She can fly at a speed of 30 ft., and attacks at +9/+4, for 1d3+2 damage, x2 crit, has 5 ft. reach, and if thrown has a range of 20 ft. She can see, hear, and has darkvision 60 ft. She can only communicate to her owner through surges of emotion. If she’s sensing someone’s motive for her owner, she will send a surge of the emotion she is sensing to her owner. Her spell like abilities she can cast on herself or her owner as requested. [b]Appearance:[/b] Shalah is a beautiful, lithe young woman with an innate grace that speaks of many years of dancing; indeed, every step seems a dance in itself. She dresses extravagantly in the colors of gold and red, both of which complement her natural coloring. Her hair is a deep gold tinged with red highlights that shift when she moves; her skin is a golden bronze, and her eyes reflect the depths of molten gold themselves. Her exotic, slanted eyes are fringed with dark lashes, and her perfect, full-lipped smile beneath her light veil has been known to stress even the most stern of men’s self-control. Once called the Radiant Star of Sultan’s Ala’Kamal’s harem, her beauty supports such a claim, as she seems to nearly glow with an internal fire. [b]Personality:[/b] Shalah’s moods and favorites tend to flow like the river, in keeping with her name; she can be frivolous and forgetful, and she rarely settles down to one opinion for long. Her only true loves are music, dance, and song. However, she is a deeply caring woman, and dislikes to hurt anyone’s feelings, instead wishing to spread only pleasure and happiness wherever she treads. She neither looks nor acts her true age, and most take her to be far younger than her age. [b]Background:[/b] A blowing sandstorm obscured the trail, and Caravan Master Emir was hopelessly lost. Suddenly, an oasis and sudden calm, the eye of the storm, rose up out of the desert in front of his caravan. Emir directed his outriders and wagons to the small oasis, blessing his guardian spirits for this unknown oasis. However, the oasis wasn’t uninhabited, nor was the caravan unexpected. An old woman awaited Emir there, along with a young, graceful, and beautiful maiden. The crone immediately demanded to speak with him, declaring that she could not wait any longer. Directing his men to make camp at the oasis until the storm stopped, he wearily acceded to her demands. However, he was soon to wish that he had passed the oasis by. The old woman claimed that she had directed his caravan here, and caused the sandstorm to facilitate their meeting. She presented the maiden at her side, naming her Shalah, and ordered Emir to deliver her with all speed to the city of Binum, which was the caravan’s destination. “There you will find an individual by the name of Abra – a free woman, an experienced courtesan. You will deliver Shalah, untouched and unharmed, to this woman.” She further explained that she had raised the maiden by herself at the oasis, but she was old and the desert would soon surely claim her, and Shalah should not be left alone. Emir was stunned. The young woman, Shalah, was beautiful and desirous, and the crone’s idea of simply handing her over to a strange man and trusting him to accomplish these deeds with Shalah’s honor intact was insane! The crone seemed to hear his unspoken thoughts, however, for she once again spoke. “Shalah will not be touched by mortal man until 40 years have passed – do not mistake her for being defenseless. Should she be defiled while in your company, you and all your men will suffer most horrendously for eternity.” Afraid, Emir declared he was departing, and his men, unnerved by the unnatural serenity about the oasis that appeared on no map while the sandstorm raged outside, agreed. “You will take Shalah with you.” The crone’s words were not a question, and her eyes seemed to bore into Emir’s soul. Even more frightened, he reluctantly agreed. Shalah, who had until this point said not a word, thanked him, then the crone, calling her ‘Aunt’. She picked up the meager bad of possessions that lie at her feet, and followed Emir to his caravan. The men were upset and unhappy about Shalah’s joining the caravan, but Emir placed her in his personal wagon and watched over her like a precious daughter. He made no mention to his men about the old woman’s words, only that Shalah was to be treated with all respect due a lady of nobility. Shortly after the caravan moved out of the oasis into the teeth of the storm, the winds died. When Emir looked back, the oasis was nowhere to be seen. He shuddered and continued on his way. Although they were indeed close to Binum, it was still several days travel, and before long the men started eying Shalah sideways and muttering about ‘genie-kin’ and ‘curses’. Emir took all care to stifle such words, and always cut them off where Shalah could hear; he was afraid that she might take it into her head to curse them for their words. It was with much relief that the city of Binum rose into view. Immediately upon the caravan making rest, Emir took Shalah, bundled as appropriate for a woman, in search of this Abra. As luck, or possibly Fate, would have it, Abra was passing through the marketplace with her women. Upon hearing that a caravan master was asking for her, she sent one of her boys to find him. He returned shortly, trailing Emir and Shalah and introduced Emir, bowing. Abra studied Emir and the strange young woman at his side as she waited for him to speak. He explained the circumstances surrounding the last two weeks, and Abra gazed with surprise at Shalah. Then, thanking Emir (who was happy to be free of such a burden), she brought Shalah to her side and to her house. She spoke long with Shalah, learning her history of being brought up in the lonely oasis by the old woman she only knew as “Aunt”. Abra declared Shalah to be the Flower of the Hidden Oasis and offered to train her. Thus was Shalah trained in the graces and knowledge of the court and nobility. She was given all the best tutors, and the most attention to help her succeed. She was trained as a high courtesan, one that Abra predicted would serve even in the court of the Sultan. During this time, although trained in the arts of pleasure, she remained a maiden as predicted. Shalah learned quickly, but Abra kept Shalah by her side, her trusted companion and confidant. Shalah, with her graceful and kind ways, had grown precious to Abra – and as the years passed and Shalah did not show any signs of aging, Abra realized that she was also not of human blood. Knowledge of Emir’s story along with certain of Shalah’s abilities lead Abra to believe that Shalah was of the accursed Genie blood, and fear of what would happen if others discovered this caused Abra to keep Shalah even closer. 40 years past, as prophesied. Abra was an old woman, and Shalah just as young and beautiful as she had been when she first came to Abra, albeit much more knowledgeable and skilled. Abra realized that she could not much longer protect Shalah from the world; although a capable woman, Shalah could not possibly protect herself from all the evilness and hate that the world had to offer, especially should the truth of her heritage become public knowledge. But she could not stand to send Shalah away. Abra reached a compromise. She was a powerful woman, having had to be with no husband, father, or brother to care for her, and wanting none. She was also one of the premier educator and tutors of concubines and courtesans, and in the City of Beauty, a very well known personage. She spoke with Shalah for some time, getting her opinion and giving her own suggestions. They came upon an agreement. So it was that she sent a message to the court of Sultan Ala’Kamal. She declared that she had a individual suitable for his harem, and no other’s – a young lady who had the benefit of many long years of Abra’s training and culture, and who had been given secrets that no other student of Abra had (all of which was true). The claim met the ears of the Sultan, who upon hearing this desired greatly to see this individual. A summons to the court was sent, and Abra rejoiced. Dressing in her best, she commanded Shalah to make herself as beautiful as possible, and that she did. Taking the [I][url=http://www.lulusabongi.com/english/Instruments/Kanoun.htm]kanoun[/url][/I] that was her preferred instrument, as well as a set of [url=http://www.lulusabongi.com/english/Instruments/Zills.htm][I]zills[/I][/url], they set out for the palace. The interview with the Sultan went beautifully, with Shalah first playing the [I]kanoun[/I] and singing beautifully, then using the [I]zills[/I] in an exotic dance. The Sultan was mesmerized, and claimed Shalah for his harem, gifting Abra with gold, jewels, and prestige beyond measure for the rest of her days. Shalah was the favorite of the Sultan for a time, and called his Radiant Star - until Nadeeda arrived at the harem. Her intelligence, wisdom, and legendary beauty captured the Sultan’s attention, and Shalah lost her place as favorite. This did not upset Shalah though, as she believed in pleasure and the joy of a new relationship above all else, and welcomed the enjoyment of the Sultan in his new prize. She was still favored as an entertainer, and was often summoned to play or dance for the Sultan or his company. She was often requested by honored guests to attend them at night, but the Sultan granted her only to his most honored guests, something that the pleasure-loving Shalah did not regret. Shalah thrived in the harem environment for nearly twenty years. She ignored the backbiting and idle gossip of the harem for the most part, although she kept her ears open for truly important news. Indeed, there was occasionally gossip about her never-changing beauty; but the Sultan’s forbiddance to speak of such things ended it quickly. She loved entertaining, both publicly and privately, and those who spoke long with her discovered that she was bright and kind. She hungered for stories of all types, and would often approach new arrivals to the harem for comfort and as a confidant. There were many in the harem that considered her a good friend, and all was good with the world. Thus it was she was one of the first to meet and become friends with Samira. The young woman’s beauty was stunning, and she instantly fascinated Shalah. She became fast friends with Samira, who was the most dazzling creature in the harem. Indeed, it wasn’t long before Sultan Ala’Kamal himself declared Samira to be his jewel, and made her his favorite. Fascination eased into infatuation, and Shalah spent almost all her time with the young Samira, who was equally smitted with Shalah. The two became lovers, and close friends – a bond that held even through Samira’s mysterious abduction and return. However, their happy time together was not to be long. Takiyah, a good friend of Shalah’s, and by extension Samira’s, asked for a boon. Takiyah was also a relative newcomer to the harem, and never took well to the life in the gilded cage. She wilted, becoming sick often. She begged Shalah to help her escape, to which Shalah agreed readily. Shalah, in turn, asked Samira to help – for the newest harem-girl was also swiftly gathering the reins of power in the harem. Samira agreed, and they devised a plan. Shalah was to accompany Takiyah across the grounds and to the wall, and there help her escape – then return to the harem. The guards were convinced or bribed to be elsewhere, and told at what time to ring the alarm. Unfortunately, Nadeeda, the jealous displaced harem-leader, overheard part of the plan. Thinking that it was Shalah who was to escape, she sent thugs to kill her and repay Samira in misery for Nadeeda’s loss of prestige. The appointed day and time came. The two girls went about the plan, while Samira was entertaining the Sultan. However, as they came to the wall, Nadeeda’s thugs leapt out. Confused by two girls when there should have only been one, they attacked. Shalah, with her athletic nature and years of experience dancing in the harem, leapt out of the way of danger – but Takiyah was not so lucky. She had enough time to bring out a ribbon dagger that she had been making, and use it to attack – but the thug’s falchion ran her through. Shalah screamed Takiyah’s name, and grasped her fallen friend’s ribbon dagger to attack. However, the thugs were unimpressed with the small weapon, and continued closing in. Realizing that they had blocked her way back to the palace, and would certainly kill her, Shalah turned and ran towards the city, tears streaming freely down her face and voicing silent apologies to Takiyah for failing to save her and Samira for leaving her. Once out into the nighttime city, Shalah realized that she couldn’t run forever. She was drawing attention even on the nearly abandoned streets. She slipped around a corner and used her small skills at being non-obtrusive to hide from those following her. Her mind raced. She couldn’t return to the palace – if she managed to return unharmed by those who had attacked her (for she had no idea who had set them upon she and Takiyah), she would be punished for escaping – and she shuddered to think what kind of punishment might occur. The only choice left, then, was to continue with Takiyah’s plan – meet her contact and leave. She gathered a modest cloak from someone’s backdoor to cover her harem-attire, and slipping it on, she quietly walked to where Takiyah had said she was to meet her patron. She met with the merchant-prince Dharr, and quietly explained her situation, showing him Takiyah’s bloodied ribbon-dagger and choking back tears. Dharr took pity upon the young-appearing woman, and Shalah convinced him to take her in Takiyah’s place. That very night, as planned, Dharr’s caravan left for the nearby city of Sagheer. A year has passed since Shalah came to be with Dharr, having secured him as a patron. He considers her music delightful, and she has often played for him at his frequent dinner parties. He considers her more of a friend than a possession, and allows her to do as she pleases… within reason. Dharr had taught the heretofore-sheltered Shalah quite a bit about the world outside the harem, and Shalah, as always, has learned quickly. Shalah was also surprised to learn that Takiyah’s ribbon-dagger, which she had carried faithfully since Takiyah’s death, had been imbued with a portion of Takiyah’s soul. One day while walking in the market alone, she was cornered by several street thugs who found her beauty and apparent wealth far too much to let walk by. Cornered and unable to run as they closed in, Shalah was about to call for help and cast a spell, when to her surprise, the ribbon-dagger that she held flew out of her hand and attacked the leader, scoring a deep blow across his eyes. Screaming and holding his hands over his face, he stumbled backward and out of the alley, his friends chased out the same way by the dagger. Once they left, it flew back to her and alighted gentle as a bird in Shalah’s hand. Ever since that day, she has been able to sense emotions and feelings from the dagger. She calls the dagger Twice-Cursed, a homage to Takiyah’s life – caged in a harem, then murdered as she attempted to escape the gilded cage. Since her escape, Shalah had a few letters smuggled back to Samira, always to let her know that Shalah was doing well; but it is very dangerous to do so, and after a messenger was captured and the (fortunately, coded) letter was read, Shalah has not sent any more save one to answer the increasingly frantic letters from Samira. Shalah has also found her infatuation for Samira to be just that – infatuation, although at the time Shalah was certain it was love. She is still fond of Samira, and considers her a good friend. She has taken the name Ala’Kamal’s Fallen Star to reference the old name of Radiant Star he had labeled her with; although in ordinary circumstances, she simply uses FallenStar.[/SBLOCK] [/QUOTE]
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